Why Eat Healthy

Since you are growing, you may find that you are more hungry, or are hungry more often. This is perfectly normal, as long as you need the extra calories to grow.

Overeating and not exercising can lead to unhealthy weight and body conditions. If you think that you may be overweight, talk to your parents or doctor about ways to become healthier.

If you want to eat healthy, it is important to make healthy choices in what you eat all the time – meaning meals and snacks.

For example: foods with refined grains, such as white flour or refined wheat, have high amounts of starch that the body just stores away and doesn't use. Try to eat more whole grains such as whole wheat (bread, etc.), brown rice and oats – which provide energy over a longer period of time after you eat them.

3 Main Reasons to Eat Healthy

Here are three main reasons that will help remind you that eating healthy is the best choice to make for your diet:

1. Eating healthy provides the necessary nutrients that your body needs to create new cells, clear out toxins and to simply function every day!
2. Eating healthy now can help prevent future diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
3. You will have more energy and be more alert.

Basic Food Groups

The USDA's ChooseMyPlate.gov outlines the basic areas of foods:

• Whole grains, such as popcorn, pasta, whole-wheat bread and cereal.
• Fruit. Eat whole fruit, which has more nutritional value than fruit juice.
• Vegetables. Mix it up and eat a variety of kinds and colors.
• Dairy, such as milk, yogurt and cheese.
• Proteins, such as lean meat, poultry and fish.
• Also, eat healthy fats, such as nuts, avocados and olive oil, while limiting saturated animal fats, sweets and salt.

Remember to eat a balanced, varied diet and eat sweets and foods that are high in fat or calories only in moderation. Following a healthy diet is something you must do for your entire life.

You don't have to give up cake, ice cream or pizza – just remember to not eat these often. Have milk or water instead of soda. Instead of cookies after school, have fruit, veggies, popcorn (low fat – don't use too much butter) or pretzels. 

Healthy Snacks

• Fruits
• Veggies
• Popcorn
• Rice cakes
• Whole-wheat bread or crackers
• Dried fruits (raisins, prunes, etc.)
• Fat-free or low-fat cheese or yogurt
• Pretzels
• Cottage cheese

Remember, eating habits don't have to change all at once. You can gradually get rid of unhealthy foods and start eating them less. 

Youth reviewer: Amanda Hung

Reviewed by: Jen Hawkins, Ph.D.

Last reviewed: June 2019